During the NBA season, hardly a day goes by when you don't see or hear something about Shaquille O'Neal. Widely regarded as one of the NBA's most dominant players, Shaq will lead the Los Angeles Lakers into the playoffs this weekend to defend their championship.

You know Shaq the MVP player, actor, singer, record company owner and marketing magnet. Now, in his new book, Shaq Talks Back, he discusses the Shaq people might not know. He comments on other players, former teammates and coaches, his career and the NBA in general.

Comment from USATODAY.com Host:
Good news, we've rescheduled for 12:45 ET. Let's begin right now...Rio de Janeiro, Brasil:
I know you are sick of this "Kobe/Shaq" thing. You told the media that you are the captain of this team and this team has to play a certain way. So my question is: are the Lakers playing the way you think they must play? Can the Lakers defense still improve?

Shaquille O'Neal:
I think this team is finally moving into a direction of synergy. We have a lot of talent on our and with the greatest effort can win a lot of games. Of course, like everything, our defense can definitly improve.Los Angeles, California:
Shaq, when are you going to make Steel 2? Do what you got to do in the playoffs and dominate all those who oppose you. GOOD LUCK!

Shaquille O'Neal:
No Steel 2 in the works right now; I am concentrating on the playoffs. Thanks for the encouragement.Columbus, OH:
Shaq, you're an inspiration to many people including myself. If there was one thing you could say to those who have low self-esteem, motivation, and inspiration?
P.S. My friends call me Jumfu, because I am unstoppable on the court like you Shaqfu. Go luck on the Repeat.

Shaquille O'Neal:
Jumfu,
Growing up I always said I wanted to be like Dr. J, Magic, Bird, etc. My father used to and still does tell me, "Don't be like them, be better than them!! Be a leader not a follower". So, don't be like me, be better than me! See you in the League!Fresno, CA:
You're at the top of your sport, you've made albums and movies, so what's next for the big man?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Another Championship!!!westfield, ma:
Shaq, i live in Mass and have been a lifelong Lakers fan, i have but one question for you last year you gave your championship ring to i believe your dad, This year who are you giving this championship ring too, thanks and can't wait too see you, Kobe and the Lakers celebrate another championship, Jeremy

Shaquille O'Neal:
I will give the ring to my Dad again, I send him him all my awards and any trophys I receive. He has been such a driving force behind where I am and who I am, those items are his for his hard work and sacrifices.Bloemker, PA:
Shaq, back in 1996, did the filming of the excellent movie "Kazaam" prevent you from appearing in "Space Jam", or did Shawn Bradley win the part on his own?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Shawn won the part on his own.Jackson, MS:
Shaq, how often do you get to visit your alma mater, LSU?

Shaquille O'Neal:
I was last there when I graduated in December. It is hard for me to get there during the season, but I try to visit the school at least once or twice in the off season.Sacramento CA,:
What do you think the reason for Jerry West leaving was?

Shaquille O'Neal:
I don't know, but for me he is still somewhat of a dominant force behind the Lakers.Detroit, MI:
What do you say to fans who celebrate by rioting after a big win?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Please don't tear down what took so long to build up!!!Paris France:
Hey Shaq, great season, what's your opinion on all these underclassmen coming out from high school? Do you think prep phenoms like Curry and Chandler can handle a season playing against the toughest players in the world? Peace and good luck in the playoffs.

Shaquille O'Neal:
I think the questions guys have to ask themselves is: are they mature enough to enter the League? Everybody is different.Indianapolis, Indiana :
I read your book. Every word on every page and I couldn't stop laughing. I did however only see one or two references to how God blessed you with the ability you have. After you win the championship this season, will you thank God first and foremost for allowing you to do the things you do? I listened for it at last years post game and trophy ceremonies but I didn't hear anyone but the loosing team thank God. I am a great fan, a fraternity brother, and I have the utmost respect for what you do. I look forward to a response. Thanks

Shaquille O'Neal:
For me, many times I like to keep my internal blessing private. Brother, I do appreciate the words of wisdom.Orlando, Fl:
Do you ever talk to Penny Hardaway?

Shaquille O'Neal:
I see and/or talk to him when we play the Suns.Conshohocken, PA:
Have you ever tried to apply any of Phil Jackson's "zen philosophies" to your career development in music and acting?

Shaquille O'Neal:
No, I apply the "Shaqzen" philosophies to the music and acting.Idaho Falls, ID:
What is your honest opinion of Phil Jackson? Is he a great coach, or does is he successful because of the players he's had on his teams?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Phil is a great coach and a great man; his record and rings speaks for itself.FT. Lauderdale, Florida:
Shaq, do you have any regrets about leaving the Orlando Magic?
Do you have fond memories of playing there and/or of the city?
Many a heart was broken in Florida when you left for L.A. I understand you had to do what was best for you, but I will always pull for anyone playing against the Lakers. Please come home to Florida (either team will be fine).
--LAKER HATER

Shaquille O'Neal:
Although I had great memories in Orlando, I have no regrets coming to LA. Life goes on! I still love Orlando, besides I still have my house there, which is where I live in the off season.hopkins, sc :
Why don't we ever hear stories about NBA players going to meet military soldiers? I wish we would get some type of recognition. People really don't understand what we do and how underpaid we are.

Shaquille O'Neal:
Being the son of a Sargent, I understand the dedication and sacrifices soldiers make. I visit bases when I can; but just because you don't hear about it doesn't mean it isn't happening.El Paso, Texas:
All your team seems to rely too too much on you pulling their weight. Have you voiced this to Phil Jackson. This is a team not Shaq & the lakers, I don't want you to get hurt throughout the playoffs. Also, I would really like for you to sign a laker shirt for me and charge me. Can this be done?

Shaquille O'Neal:
I think we all realize this is a team, and all team members must pull there own weight to survive.Gaithersburg, MD:
Do you think if Michael Jordan came back would it be good for the NBA?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Sure, if that's what he wants to do. He's one of the greatest players in the game, who wouldn't want to see him come back??Long Beach, CA:
Shaq, I love watching the Lakers. I want to play for the Lakers. I have no skills, I have no talent, I have no hops and I have no speed. All I have is the love for the game. Does that make me qualify to be on the Laker team?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Love for the game is needed for a strong effort. Keep trying!!Garden Grove, California:
Whats the REAL story on Rider?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Great player, great commitment and sometimes under estimated.Jacksonville, Florida:
Shaq, my 5 yrs old is named Shaquille King, which he is called 'lil Shaq, I want him to be a basketball player, but he wants to play football, what should I tell him what sports is best, my concerns is mostly safety regarding basketball, football is very dangerous to me. Single Parent.

Shaquille O'Neal:
Great first name!! What's his middle name? Just let him have fun and enjoy life!!San Antonio, TX.:
Just wondering what your and Phil Jackson's response will be this year when the Spurs when the championship... no asterisk this time!

Shaquille O'Neal:
Sorry, no championship for the Spurs, so no response needed!!Columbia Tennessee:
Shaquille you should work on a jumpshot that is 15 feet away from the basket this would open your game even more and do you practice moves like Hakeem Olajuwon. I hope you win another nba title this year good luck.

Shaquille O'Neal:
Thanks for advise and encouragement!!Orlando, Florida:
What are your plans after retiring from basketball?

Shaquille O'Neal:
Family life, vacations and great business ventures, like Dave Bing!Comment from USATODAY.com Host:
We are out of time. Shaq is off to practice. Thanks for all the questions.